Prom is a classic high school tradition, from prom queens, to limousines, and of course prom dresses. Shopping for prom dresses is often stressful, complex, and most of all, extremely expensive. Abby’s Closet is a non profit organization that provides high school students from all over Oregon free prom dresses. The Abby’s Closet board of directors describes Abby’s Closet as “an Oregon-based nonprofit organization, is a volunteer group with a vision to help make prom dreams come true. In 2004, Abby’s Closet was co-founded as a nonprofit organization by Sally Egland (mother), Abby Wilson (daughter), and a small group of friends. Its mission was to collect formal dresses and give them away, free of charge, to high school students.”
Each year during spring they host the biggest event of the year, the prom dress giveaway. This event takes place at the Convention Center and is completely free of charge. Anyone can get a free dress and accessories with proof of high school attendance, like a Student ID. This year on April 5th from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm, and April 6th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, the Oregon Convention Center will be full of over 7000 prom dresses and accessories. With sizes from 0-20+ as well as dresses in both vintage and modern styles there is something for everyone. There is also plenty of heels, jewelry, and other accessories available for students. All students need to do to attend the event is register in advance, which you can do at the link below.
Register!
This event and organization is more than just a giveaway. I have spent the last two years as a part of the SAB, or student advisory board for Abby’s Closet. A group of high school students from high schools all over Oregon and Washington who volunteer and work with the organization. We act as student representatives and work directly with the organization. It’s an extremely fun and supportive community to be a part of, from dress sorting parties where we size and sort through dress donations, to press events like appearing on the TV news channels, and fundraisers. The SAB is a great place for lovers of cute dresses, volunteering, community, and fun. I highly encourage anyone who is interested to apply when applications open near the end of the school year, it’s an amazing community service opportunity and looks great on a resume. My favorite part is the prom dress giveaway, where you get to help students find their perfect dress and connect with high schoolers from all over the PNW.
If you want to come check out the giveaway and get a free prom dress, donate any dresses you have at home, or volunteer use the links below. Also apply to be a part of the SAB and help an organization that has given away over 45,000 dresses. Even if you aren’t attending prom this year on May 17th, there are lots of shorter dresses that could be worn to homecoming or other events as well. Whether you are a freshman or senior, come find the perfect dress for free!
Volunteer and dress donation links!
